The Norwegian led Molde to their first ever league title in his debut season as manager in 2011, before repeating the feat the following season, but considers himself too young and inexperienced for the United job.

"I can say that I'm not stupid enough or naive enough to be able to do that job," Solskjaer told Omnisport.

"Every player who has played for Man United would hope that they become such a good manager that they could get that job.

"If that's to happen I've got to work hard in many, many years and learn, get the experience and let's see later on.

"As young managers, when you come to a tough period you've got to get through that one to show the Man United board, Man United supporters that you might be the right man.

"I'll have to get through hard times before I think about that one. I'm always going to be a Man United supporter, you cut me up I'll bleed red.

"Any kid's dream is to play at Man United if you have a Man United heart. When you get too old to play, the next best thing is to be the manager.”

Current United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was presented with a bronze statue to honour his 26 years in charge at Old Trafford, and Solskjaer has hailed the Scot as an inspiration for him and any other aspiring manager.

He continued: “He has a hunger obviously to help his players, help his staff, help the club move on,"

"There's never a day you feel he sits down and says 'I can take it easy today'.

"His work rate and hunger is unbelievable so to be successful you've got to be on your toes all the time, you've got to work, you've got to have good ideas."